Saturday, August 13, 2011

Sweater label tutorial

You will need:
-a segment of wide twill tape or ribbon- mine was 1 inch wide (though I am using a 3/4 inch piece for this tute)
-iron on transfer paper (I got mine here)
-an iron and a computer :)

Here's what you do.

1. Think about what you want on the label. Type out something simple in a Word program or get fancy and include graphics and all that computer scrapbooking stuff.

2. Format the info to fit your twill tape.

3. Do a practice print on regular paper, being sure to chose the "print mirror image" option. In Microsoft Word, click print: properties: layout and then check the box that reads "print mirror image".

4. Hold the twill tape up to the paper to verify that it will fit. Then cut a segment of transfer paper and tape it, adhesive side out, over top of the label information on the practice page. Be generous and cut it about an inch wider on all sides.

5. Reload into the printer and print (*remember to again select "print mirror image")

6. Trim transfer paper to size
7. Place adhesive side down on twill tape and iron, following transfer paper instructions.

8. Peel off backing paper and hand stitch to your sweater!

Just a note- I find that these transfers do not hold up well to vigorous, regular washing. The image will fade. I might not choose to use this for everyday clothes, but for a hand wash sweater of something washed only occasionally, they are perfect.
I have also used them on my bags and purses with great success. Hope you can find it useful!

Funny. When I asked (yes I was one of the many) about how you made the label I didn't realize that it is the same process I use for quilt labels. I transfer onto white or neutral quilters cotton. It works fairly well with quilts that aren't washed often. However, your twill tape idea is quite clever, and the result looks like a fancy custom print job. Thanks!

TERMS OF USE - You may use all of my free tutorials for personal or charitable/fundraising purposes. I do not allow items made using my tutorials to be sold for profit. Please feel free to link to any of my projects but DO NOT use pictures of my children. Thank you!